Preah Sihanouk aims to boost overnight stays among cruise ship tourists
Sihanoukville: A New Hub for Cruise Tourism
Preah Sihanouk province is making significant strides to attract cruise ship tourists. The goal is to encourage these visitors to spend at least one night in the area. This initiative comes as the region experiences a resurgence in cruise arrivals following a pandemic-induced lull. With a strategic focus on enhancing the local tourism experience, Sihanoukville aims to transform itself into a vibrant destination for both short-term visitors and long-term investors.
Surge in Cruise Arrivals
In 2023, Preah Sihanouk province welcomed 18 cruise ships carrying over 14,000 passengers. This marked a remarkable 100% increase compared to previous years. The trend continued into 2024, with 22 cruise ships bringing in more than 18,000 visitors, a rise of 26.94%. Despite this growth, many tourists currently dock in the morning and leave by evening. This limits their time and spending in the province, which is a concern for local tourism officials.
Taing Socheat Krisna, the director of the provincial Department of Tourism, highlighted the need for change. In 2019, the province received 48 cruise ships and over 65,000 passengers. However, the Covid-19 pandemic halted cruise traffic until late 2022. Now, with the increase in arrivals, officials see an opportunity to encourage longer stays. Popular activities for cruise tourists include visits to beach resorts, local markets, and cultural sites such as pagodas and schools. Sihanoukville town governor Mang Sinat mentioned that programs are in place for cruise passengers to visit monasteries, providing them with a unique cultural experience.
Enhancing the Local Tourism Experience
To capitalize on the growing number of cruise visitors, Sihanoukville is focusing on creating a more appealing nighttime atmosphere. The local government is preparing new tourism products and services to encourage visitors to stay longer. Areas like Pub Street and night markets are being highlighted to attract tourists after dark. This shift could significantly benefit local businesses, including hotels and restaurants.
Efforts are underway to enhance Sihanoukville’s evening offerings. Plans include hosting coastal art performances, cultural events, and special celebrations that coincide with cruise ship arrivals. These initiatives aim to provide tourists with a richer experience, allowing them to explore the town’s natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Socheat Krisna emphasized the importance of developing activities and improving infrastructure to encourage overnight stays. Upgrades to port facilities and transportation networks are also being prioritized to facilitate seamless travel between Sihanoukville and nearby destinations.
As Sihanoukville prepares for the future, the Cambodia-Vietnam-Thailand Economic Corridor (CVTEC) is expected to enhance regional connectivity. This will allow tourists to explore multiple coastal destinations easily. The recent opening of a tourist port in Kampot and the completion of key roads linking Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, and Koh Kong are anticipated to further boost tourism via both land and sea.
In conclusion, Sihanoukville is positioning itself as a dynamic and sustainable coastal tourism hub. By focusing on extending cruise tourism beyond day visits, the province aims to attract a wider range of tourists and foster a more sustainable tourism economy. With the right investments and strategic planning, Sihanoukville could become a premier destination for cruise ships traveling through Southeast Asia.
